Once Upon a Time...

Once upon a time there was a girl starting a new chapter in her life as a freshman at The Ohio State University.  She lived on an all-girl floor and had the nicest Resident Adviser.  The RA introduced the girl to some of her friends.  While the girl was in the room of one of those friends there was a knock at the door.   


A tall stranger was on the other side.  He didn't say much.


A friendship grew between the stranger and the girl.  They would talk and hang out, mostly with all of their mutual friends.


As the end of the school year approached, the girl realized that she kind of liked this stranger who had become a friend...this gentle giant.


They said their goodbyes with a promise that he would write over the summer (remember when people used to write letters?)


The girl waited for a letter...and just when she stopped waiting, it arrived.  It was simple, but precious.  She wrote back, trying not to be too obvious that she had a bit of a crush.


In addition to letters they would talk on the phone...casual conversation.  


Eventually plans were made for a visit...the gentle giant was going to a strange place to visit the girl.  


The day arrived...the gentle giant arrived on the Greyhound bus (oh yes he did!).  The visit was nice...simple and sweet...innocent.


The next school year arrives and the girl is still feeling butterflies for the gentle giant.  Others start to recognize that there's a tiny bit of chemistry and try and play match maker.


Finally, the time arrives...the girl reveals her crush to the gentle giant.  He says he likes her too.  A relationship begins...


14 1/2 years, 9 years of marriage, two kids and a house later here they are...still friends.  What a foundation...the foundation that holds them together. 

Happy Anniversary Friend!